• Nominees must either operate/reside in Nigeria or be effecting positive change in Nigeria.
• Nominations are free and do not attract any fee.
• Gala & Awards Night to hold November 14, 2025

Lagos, Nigeria — August 20, 2025

Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) is pleased to announce that nominations are now officially open to the public for the third edition of the PSHAN Annual Gala & Awards Night; a national platform that celebrates excellence, innovation, and transformative impact in Nigeria’s health sector.

This year’s event, themed “Champions for Change: Celebrating Impact,” seeks to recognise individuals, organisations, and initiatives that are advancing healthcare outcomes and catalysing change within communities across the country. Members of the public are invited to submit nominations for outstanding champions who are shaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria.

Speaking on the opening of nominations, Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, MD/CEO of PSHAN, stated:
“We believe that real change begins with recognising those who are doing the work to make healthcare better, more inclusive, and more sustainable. This awards platform is not only about celebrating achievements; it is about amplifying the stories of resilience, leadership, and innovation that often go unnoticed. We urge the public to participate by nominating the changemakers around them: those whose work speaks louder than accolades, but who truly deserve to be celebrated.”

The award categories for 2025 have been redefined to accommodate a broad spectrum of contributions, from well-established healthcare pioneers to emerging voices and underserved actors in the ecosystem. The 2025 awards will span 25 sub-categories across the 5 key award categories: Government MDAs for impactful public health initiatives; Media & Innovative Health Communications for excellence in health storytelling and digital influence; Indigenous NGOs, Local Healthcare Institutions & Community-Based Organisations for grassroots healthcare delivery; Individuals for outstanding contributions to health advocacy and service; and the Organised Private Sector for leadership and innovation in healthcare partnerships and innovations.

An independent panel of expert judges drawn from academia, public health, strategy consulting, development, media, and the private sector will evaluate all eligible nominations to ensure a fair, transparent, and merit-based nomination process.

Eligibility requirements for nominees include the following: they must either reside in or have demonstrable impact in Nigeria; individual nominees must be 18 years or older; multiple nominations across various categories are permitted; however, self-nominations are not allowed. Submissions will be assessed based on demonstrable impact, innovation, alignment with health equity goals, and evidence of sustainability.

Notable past awardees include the Lagos State Ministry of Health (LSMOH), recognised for a consistent leadership in public health governance; Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Assistant Director General, World Health Organisation, for his outstanding leadership in public health and pandemic preparedness; Dr. Filani Oyebanji, Honourable Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Ekiti State, for his exceptional contributions in improving health outcomes in Nigeria; Dr. Stella Okoli (OON), Founder & CEO of Emzor, celebrated for her pioneering role in local pharmaceutical development; Dr. Chinonso Egemba (popularly known as Aproko Doctor), for his digital health advocacy and grassroots education; and Healthtracka, founded by Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson, for revolutionising access to diagnostics through technology, among others.

Selected awardees will be honoured at the PSHAN Annual Gala & Awards Night, which is scheduled to hold on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Civic Centre, Lagos. The highly anticipated gathering will bring together public and private sector leaders, development partners, and frontline health innovators to honour the best of the best in Nigeria’s health sector.

The public is encouraged to nominate deserving individuals and organisations by visiting: www.pshan.org/gala

Nigeria’s healthcare system is in dire need of transformation, with nearly one in 25 women facing the risk of dying during childbirth. Despite being one of Africa’s largest economies, the country’s healthcare statistics are alarming, with high maternal mortality rates, underfunded health budgets, and uneven access to quality services. However, in recent years, the private sector has emerged as a vital partner in achieving national health goals. Iyadunni Olubode and Dr Tinuola Akinbolagbe writes

Once viewed as a peripheral player in public health, Nigeria’s private sector is rapidly becoming a central force in advancing national health goals, bridging systemic gaps, and accelerating progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The sector’s growing role marks a crucial shift in how health care is envisioned, financed, and delivered in the country.

Read more at www.thisdaylive.com

L-R: Head of Corporate Communications, Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), Clifford Egbomeade; Managing Director, Vcare Diagnostics Ltd, Dr. Wale Olusanya; Director of Policy, PSHAN, Dr. Anne Adah-Ogoh; Veteran Nollywood Actor/Producer, Segun Arinze; Veteran Nollywood Actor/Producer, Iretiola Doyle; and Head of Membership and Partnerships, PSHAN, Muyiwa Olowoporoku; at PSHAN’s Cocktails & Conversations event held in Ikoyi, Lagos, recently.

LAGOS, NIGERIA — An evening of insight, connection, and shared commitment marked the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN)’s official “Cocktails & Conversations” mixer held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Herel Play, Ikoyi, Lagos The event brought together corporate executives, healthcare advocates, and development partners to explore how private sector collaboration can help transform Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.

Themed “Together for Health: Building Healthier Communities Through Collective Action,” the mixer spotlighted PSHAN’s flagship Adopt-A-Healthcare Facility Program (ADHFP) and encouraged new partnerships across sectors.

Expanding Corporate Participation

Speaking during the evening, PSHAN’s Head of Membership and Partnerships, Muyiwa Olowoporoku, outlined multiple pathways for organizations to get involved. These include volunteering, primary healthcare facility adoption, donations, and premium membership packages.

He added that the alliance is open not just to corporations, but also to individual professionals and passionate community volunteers who help share healthcare stories from the grassroots.

“We believe partnerships are powerful tools for change,” said Olowoporoku. “This event was about starting conversations that lead to action. We’re excited to see the momentum build.”

Showcasing Strategic Partnerships

Key partners used the event to reaffirm their commitment to healthcare advancement. MTN Foundation, represented by Senior Manager Edward Fagbohun, spoke about the company’s ongoing support for impact-led initiatives.

PiggyVest CEO Somtochukwu Ifezue emphasized the importance of engaging younger Nigerians in advocacy and announced plans to co-develop a new PSHAN digital platform that will boost outreach and accessibility.

Tackling Infrastructure Gaps

Discussions at the mixer also addressed Nigeria’s significant healthcare infrastructure gap. Data presented during the event revealed that fewer than 20 percent of the country’s 30,000 primary health centres are currently functioning effectively. This reality underscores the urgency of PSHAN’s facility adoption model and its call for private sector support.

Veteran actor and producer Ireti Doyle added her voice to the evening’s message, stressing the importance of reaching communities that are often overlooked in national healthcare efforts.

Looking Ahead to the Gala

The event also served as a build-up to PSHAN’s third Annual Gala & Awards Night, scheduled for November 14, 2025. The gala will celebrate individuals and organizations driving transformation across Nigeria’s healthcare system.

PSHAN’s Head of Corporate Communications, Clifford Egbomeade, encouraged guests to take the evening’s conversations back into their organizations and networks.

“The success of this event shows that collective impact is possible. We are just getting started—let’s continue this everywhere we go,” Egbomeade said.

Introduction

In an era of rapid technological advancement and data-driven solutions, community health initiatives can be significantly enhanced through the strategic use of data. The successful implementation of health programmes relies heavily on community participation, as local stakeholders are crucial for contextual understanding and sustained engagement. In Nigeria, the Adopt-A-Healthcare Facility Programme (ADHFP) exemplifies how data and community involvement can intersect to improve health outcomes.

The Role of Community Participation in Health Programs

Community participation fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, enabling health initiatives to thrive in diverse environments. When communities are involved in decision-making and operational processes, health interventions become more aligned with the population’s unique needs. This participatory approach not only builds trust but also encourages the adoption of health services and practices.

The ADHFP demonstrates the power of community involvement by engaging local governments, community leaders, and indigenous residents in revitalizing primary healthcare centers (PHCs). By involving these stakeholders, the programme ensures that healthcare facilities are accessible, well-equipped, and responsive to community-specific health challenges.

Data as a Catalyst for Improved Health Outcomes

Throughout the program, Data collection and analysis are fundamental to identifying health trends, allocating resources, and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. Our data has been instrumental in tracking key performance indicators, such as general attendance, outpatient visits, antenatal care, immunization rates, and maternal and infant health outcomes.

For instance, the 2024 performance data from the ADHFP highlights significant achievements across multiple states in Nigeria. Rivers State recorded over 24,000 general healthcare attendances, with more than 9,000 children fully immunised. Similarly, Bauchi State achieved over 6,800 general attendances and successfully immunized 760 children. These figures underscore the program’s impact and provide valuable insights for scaling up efforts.

One notable success of the ADHFP is the achievement of zero maternal and infant mortalities across the programme’s operational facilities in 2024. This remarkable outcome underscores the effectiveness of enhanced healthcare services, community engagement, and the strategic use of data to address critical health challenges.

Key Factors Behind the Zero Mortality Milestone

1. Comprehensive Facility Upgrades:
   • Structural repairs and maintenance ensured safe and hygienic environments for care delivery.
   • Reliable energy sources, including solar power, supported critical healthcare functions such as vaccine storage.
   • Plumbing repairs provided clean water essential for safe childbirth and newborn care.
2. Enhanced Staffing and Capacity Building:
   • The recruitment and training of healthcare workers addressed critical staffing shortages.
   • Continuous professional development equipped staff with the skills to handle complex deliveries and emergencies.
3. Community Engagement and Education:
   • Health awareness campaigns educated community members on the importance of antenatal care and safe delivery practices.
   • Local volunteers supported outreach efforts, ensuring that women accessed timely care.
4. Data Monitoring and Evaluation:
   • Continuous data tracking allowed for real-time identification of potential risks.
   • Data-driven insights guided resource allocation and service delivery improvements.

Sustaining Success

To maintain and replicate this achievement, the following steps are crucial:

1. Strengthening Quality of Care: Standardizing care protocols to ensure consistent service delivery across all PHCs.
2. Expanding Staffing and Training: Increasing recruitment and capacity-building initiatives to meet the growing demand for maternal and child health services.
3. Leveraging Digital Technology: Implementing digital health solutions for real-time data collection and monitoring.
4. Community Advocacy: Continuing to involve community members in health advocacy and education efforts.

Leveraging Data for Targeted Interventions

Data-driven decision-making enables health authorities and program implementers to tailor interventions to specific community needs. Through the ADHFP, data has revealed critical challenges such as inadequate staffing, limited access to clean water, and infrastructural deficiencies. Addressing these issues becomes more manageable when data pinpoints where interventions are most needed.

Moreover, the integration of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems within the ADHFP has facilitated continuous assessment and improvement of healthcare services. This approach ensures that progress is tracked, challenges are promptly addressed, and best practices are replicated across facilities.

The Path Forward: Strengthening Data-Driven Community Health Initiatives

To build on the successes of key indicators critical to operating the Programme, the following steps are recommended:

1. Enhanced Community Engagement: Actively involve community members in data collection, analysis, and decision-making processes to ensure that health interventions remain relevant and effective.
2. Capacity Building: Train healthcare workers and community volunteers in data management and analysis to improve the accuracy and utility of health data.
3. Infrastructure Development: Invest in digital health infrastructure to streamline data collection and reporting.
4. Collaborative Partnerships: Foster partnerships between government agencies, private sector organizations, and international development partners to leverage resources and expertise.
5. Transparency and Accountability: Share data findings with community and agency stakeholders to promote transparency and encourage collaborative problem-solving.

Idunmwunvgha PHC, Ward Development Committee. Image Credit: PSHAN

The Bottom-line

The intersection of community participation and data-driven health initiatives offers a promising pathway to improved health outcomes. The ADHFP in Nigeria serves as a compelling example of how leveraging data and involving communities can transform primary healthcare delivery. By building these foundations, stakeholders can create resilient, responsive, and sustainable health systems that meet the needs of all citizens.

Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) and BudgIT Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving healthcare system in Nigeria.

While the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of PSHAN, Dr Tinuola Akinbolagbe signed on behalf of PSHAN, the Country Director of BudgIT, Gabriel Okeowo signed for BudgIT.

The partnership is about upscaling healthcare especially at the grassroot through sharing insights based on access to data that would aid decision about PHCs that needs reformation and adoption among other initiatives.

Both also hope to utilise its extensive network to advocate for funding and resources essential for PHC reform projects.

PSHAN also look foward to using the platform of the MoU to partner with BudgIT to organise and facilitate a one-day summit focused on PHC data insights, ensuring robust participation from private sector entities.

In her welcome address, Focal Lead, ADHFP, PSHAN, Rukayyat Sadiq was optimistic that the MoU will help boost accountability in the health sector.

In her introductory remarks, Akinbolagbe said that it is quite obvious that what both organizations was doing aligns with some duplication of efforts.

Read more…

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, a philanthropic non-profit organisation, has announced a nationwide call for nominations of primary healthcare centres (PHCs) due for revitalisation in Nigeria.

In a statement on Thursday, the organisation said the initiative, facilitated by the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), is part of the adopt-a-healthcare-facility programme (ADHFP).

Read more…

In the face of Nigeria’s struggling healthcare system, the MTN Foundation stands out as a pivotal force, spearheading efforts to reinvigorate primary healthcare nationwide. Founded in 2004, the Foundation has led corporate social investment, directing over NGN 24.73 billion into meaningful projects across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. With more than 1,023 project sites serving 31 million individuals, their efforts encompass education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Central to their mission is the ‘What Can We Do Together’ initiative, launched in 2015, which remains a key component of the MTN Foundation’s work.

This program exemplifies their commitment to collaborative, community-driven projects. Now in its fifth phase, the initiative is investing over N1 billion to revitalise 52 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in states including, amongst others.  This investment aims to bolster healthcare infrastructure and ensure these facilities are well-equipped to serve their communities effectively.

Beyond mere upgrades, the MTN Foundation is committed to a holistic approach, aiming for sustainable impact. By partnering with local communities and stakeholders, the Foundation aligns its developments with the genuine needs and aspirations of the people it serves. Tangible improvements include equipping PHCs with potable water, reliable power, and essential medical equipment. Through the installation of boreholes and provision of alternative power sources, the MTN Foundation ensures that these centres deliver consistent, high-quality care, ensuring the long-term benefits of their initiatives.

Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), through its flagship initiative, Adopt A Healthcare Facility Programme, ADHFP, is proud to partner with the MTN Foundation in this transformative journey. This partnership has already significantly improved healthcare access and outcomes across Nigeria. PSHAN supports the MTN Foundation’s work by ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of the PHCs being upgraded by the MTN Foundation, safeguarding these investments for the long term, and contributing to a more robust primary healthcare system across the country.

While the ambitious goal of upgrading 52 PHCs is commendable, the journey doesn’t end here. We invite individuals, organisations, and communities to play a crucial role in supporting and engaging with the ADHFP initiative.

For more information on how to get involved or support these transformative efforts, visit Together, we can build a future where every Nigerian has access to quality healthcare and a healthier life, empowering you to make a difference.

Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Annual Gala and Awards Night on Friday, 25th October 2024, at the prestigious Civic Centre, Lagos. Building on last year’s inaugural event momentum, the annual Gala exceeded all expectations.

Themed “Celebrating Excellence in Healthcare,” the event was a remarkable celebration of excellence filled with inspiring speeches, delightful entertainment and the recognition of individuals and organisations driving real change. The main event of the evening was the awards ceremony, which appreciated those making a tangible difference in the healthcare sector.

The Gala was attended by industry leaders, government officials, innovators, and healthcare professionals to recognise their impressive contributions to Nigeria’s healthcare system. Notable attendees included World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Representative and Head of Mission to Nigeria, Dr. Walter Mulombo; Executive Director, MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya; Managing Director and CEO, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Zouera Youssoufou; and many others.

Speaking at the event, PSHAN MD/CEO, Dr Tinuola Akinbolagbe highlighted the significance of collaboration in building a trusted healthcare system, saying, “Tonight, we reflect on our journey with your support, driving healthcare equity and meaningful impact. We are honoured to acknowledge those who invested their time and resources in improving health outcomes in our nation. Your dedication inspires us and strengthens our commitment to a healthier Nigeria.”

Prof.Muhammad Ali, Hon. Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, represented by  Dr Ayodeji Oluwole, Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, LUTH; Koessan Kuawu, Deputy Representative, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); and Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, took to the stage to deliver goodwill messages. Ms Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group, also delivered a special virtual address. Delivering the address, Dr. Amina noted that universal health coverage is a key to achieving SDG3 and all the SDGs, from poverty eradication to building peaceful and inclusive society. “

The keynote speech was delivered by Dr. Walter Mulombo, WHO Country Representative and Head of Mission to Nigeria, who looked back on PSHAN’s progress, stating, “When it was founded some years ago, I’m sure we never imagined the scale of the results we’re seeing today. PSHAN’s journey proves that strategic collaboration is the way forward for sustainable healthcare development.”

Speaking on behalf of the PSHAN Board of Directors, Zouera Youssoufou, CEO of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, talked about the organisation’s inception and progress. In her words, “Four people—Aliko Dangote; Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Jim Ovia; and Sola David-Borha—came together with a shared idea: how can the private sector unite to address health issues and support the government? Now, 10 years later, we are witnessing the impact of that vision, and it is only the beginning.

PSHAN’s 2024 Annual Gala & Awards left a lasting impact, promoting stakeholder cooperation whilst setting a high standard for future events. As the curtains closed on the evening, the message was clear:  progress is being made, but there is more to be done. With strengthened partnerships and renewed commitments, PSHAN remains dedicated to driving positive change in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Full List of Winners

The Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN) and Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation have commissioned four renovated Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in Edo State.

The renovated PHCs, part of the Adopt-a-Healthcare Facility Programme (ADHFP), will provide improved maternal and child health, immunizations and outpatient services.

The renovated centres, located in Atoruru, Ute, Evbuodia, and Idunmungha, were commissioned on September 13, 2024, marking a major milestone in the Adopt-a-Healthcare Facility Programme (ADHFP). This initiative aims to improve healthcare accessibility and quality in underserved communities.

According to Mrs. Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, Co-Founder and Executive Vice Chair of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, “A healthy population is the cornerstone of sustainable development. We’re committed to bridging the healthcare gap in Nigeria by revitalizing Primary Healthcare Centres.”

Dr. Tinuola Akinbolagbe, MD/CEO of PSHAN, noted, “Our pilot facilities have seen significant increases in outpatient attendance, maternal care registrations, and immunizations – 91% and 832% growth in outpatient attendance and antenatal care registrations, respectively, in 2023 alone.”

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation has committed millions of naira to renovating 23 PHCs across Nigeria under the ADHFP. This partnership between PSHAN and the Foundation is part of a broader strategy to accelerate improvements in health outcomes nationwide.

Read more on ThisDay

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming various sectors, with healthcare being one of the most promising areas for improvement. With AI, healthcare outcomes can be improved by enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility in a wide range of clinical and administrative activities, including diagnostics, treatment plans, and patient care.

Key Discussion Points

Cost Reduction & Efficiency

• Reducing Healthcare Costs: AI can help reduce healthcare costs by improving diagnosis and treatment, thereby reducing repeat visits and associated expenses.

• Optimizing Human Resources: AI enhances workforce management, improves training, and addresses critical shortages, making the healthcare system more efficient.

Quality Improvement & Universal Health Coverage

• Improving Healthcare Quality: AI can improve the quality of healthcare services, which is essential for improving health indicators and achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030.

• Building Technological Skills: Incorporating technology modules into healthcare workers’ curricula is vital to building the necessary human resources to effectively deploy AI.

Safety & Data Protection

• Stringent Safety Regulations: Implementing robust safety regulations and data protection measures for medical AI is crucial to maintaining patient privacy, trust, and preventing risks.

Context-Specific Tools & Bias

• Addressing Algorithm Bias: Developing contextually relevant AI tools is essential to avoiding algorithm bias and ensuring fair outcomes for all patients.

Interoperability & Sustainability

• Ensuring Interoperability: Interoperability between different AI technologies is key to harnessing their full value, ensuring efficiency, and guaranteeing long-term sustainability.

Regulation & Policy Framework

• Regulatory Framework: Creating and enforcing the right regulatory framework and policies is crucial for optimizing the use of AI in healthcare.

Private Sector Investment

• Private Sector Role: The private sector plays a critical role in providing the investment needed to support AI deployment in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Speakers and Panelists

Welcome Remarks

Mrs Margaret Olele, CEO/Executive Secretary, American Business Council

Anchor

Dr Anne Adah-Ogoh, Director, Policy, PSHAN.

Moderator

Dr Nneka Mobisson, CEO & Co-Founder of mDoc.

Panelists

• Dr. Anthony Adoghe*, Deputy Director, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria.  (*Regrets)
• Dr. George Uduku, General Manager, West Africa, GE Healthcare.
• Dr. Dr Hammed Ninalowo, Founder/CEO, IRDOC Nigeria.

Closing Remarks

Dr Tinuola Akinbolagbe, MD/CEO, PSHAN.